It is helpful
to distinguish between free-flow information exchanges and those that
are conducted with a specific end-purpose in mind.

In a free-flow online exchange, there is no predetermined topic sentence
or logical categorization until after the discussion unfolds. This
can sometimes be exciting, but more frequently, free-flow exchange
leads to frustration as many questions and statements go unanswered.
Following some simple
guidelines can improve the quality of free-flow exchange.

This type
of online conversation occurs for a limited amount of time, with a
predetermined purpose and a set of protocols in place that will maintain
a focus
on the stated purpose. Protocol-based exchanges are particularly important
for new collaborations as they reduce a lot of the personal anxiety
that comes from a lack of timely response and other such factors found
more frequently in a free-flow exchange.